Motor vehicle occupant injury continues to be the leading cause of death for children over the age of one. Area firefighters, law enforcement officers, and health care professionals are attending the National Standardized Child Passenger Safety Program sponsored by, the Wake County SAFE KIDS Coalition, Office of State Fire Marshal, and the Garner Police Department.

The 32-hour training will teach the students, to properly install the child seat in the automobile, and the proper placement of the child in the seat.

While misuse rates are high, non-use continues to be the biggest problem; and that's why the Wake County SAFE KIDS Coalition sponsored this class. SAFE KIDS consists of individuals and organizations that are committed to reducing the incidence of preventable childhood injuries. "Our coalition wants to be proactive and provide our community with resources to educate them on the proper manner to transport their children safely," said Sergeant Wade Bulloch of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and Chair of SAFE KIDS. "This class represents the most dedicated agencies and I'm sure that they will be a valuable local resource."

Students receiving the training are from the following agencies: Raleigh Fire Department, Fuquay-Varina Fire Department, Raleigh Police Department, Fuquay- Varina Police Department, Garner Police Department, Wake Med, Wake County Human Services, Cary Police Department, North Carolina Highway Patrol and Parents as Teachers of Harnett County.

As part of the training, a 2-hour clinic will be conducted on Friday, June 28th at Target on US 70 at Timber Drive in Garner 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.